Thursday, September 12, 2013

Iowa State: Study Abroad Shorts: WISE in Madrid


Program Overview



The focus of the program is a comparative analysis of issues facing women in science and engineering here in the United States and how those issues are different/similar for women internationally. We have selected the location of Spain due to the high percentage of women in the science and engineering workforce (42% in Spain compared to 23% in the U.S.). The program would also provide students the opportunity to explore the broader social, economic, political, and historical contexts of these two countries. Students will enroll in INST 295 and receive 2-credits towards their International Perspectives requirements in Spring 2014.


In addition to pre- and post-coursework students would have opportunities to

  • tour science & engineering facilities

  • meet with professional scientists and engineers

  • meet with university students and faculty

  • engage in the culture of the destination

At the end of the program, students will:

  • develop a basic understanding of the geography, cultural, economic, political, educational, and social systems of Spain,

  • be able to compare and contrast the experiences and issues (in higher education and in the workplace) surrounding women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) disciplines in the U.S. and Spain,

  • gain an understanding of the globalization of STEM, and

  • understand the relationship and intersection of current issues in Spain and the U.S., and their impact on STEM education and careers.

Tentative Itinerary


Thursday, March 13, 2014:
Depart Iowa State University
Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to Madrid, Spain (MAD)


Friday, March 14, 2014:
Arrive Madrid, Spain (a.m.)
Sightseeing tour, cultural overview of Madrid


Saturday, March 15, 2014
Morning: cultural overview specific to the education system and women in the workforce
Afternoon: Royal Palace (including the historical Royal Pharmacy, and armory) with lesson on negotiating the metro
Dinner: Group Meal - Tapas bar dinner/early for Spain


Sunday, March 16, 2014


Morning: Prado museum, walk through Retiro Park to Plaza de la Puerta del Sol
Afternoon: Free time and time for student class projects
Evening: Optional Bullfight (only night this is available while we are there)


Monday, March 17, 2014
Morning: John Deere Iberia: tour facility, meet with female STEM employees, lunch
Afternoon: Spanish-owned Company
Evening: Flamenco Dancing


Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Morning: Corporate visit, tour facility, meet with female STEM employees, lunch
Afternoon: Visit with female undergraduates in STEM majors/faculty at a university


Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Day Trip: Toledo + Olive Farm


Thursday, March 20, 2014
Morning: tour company, meet with female STEM employees, lunch
Afternoon: Sightseeing in Madrid


Friday, March 21, 2014
Day Trip: Segovia: Roman Aqueducts, Castle (military engineering), etc.


Saturday, March 22, 2014
Morning: classroom space: trip wrap up and reflection - preparation for return trip and project work time also
Afternoon: Free time (souvenir shopping, etc.)


Sunday, March 23, 2014
Travel Day: Return to Ames, Iowa


Cost Estimate


The total cost of the Study Abroad Short is estimated at $3500 for the 10-day experience. Scholarships from the Program for Women in Science and Engineering in the amount of $1000 are available. To apply for this scholarship,


Program Requirements


Priority will be given to students who are:

  • Participating in a Women in Science & Engineering Learning Community (first-year, second-year or transfer)

  • Majoring in a Science, Technology, Engineering or Math major (a complete list can be found at: http://www.pwse.iastate.edu/wisemajors.html).


Program Directors


Allie Rowe and Janice Crow from the Program for Women in Science and Engineering will co-lead the experience.



Source: Iastate

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